Since 2012, the Amsterdam-based improvisation ensemble All Ellington, led by trumpeter Eric Boeren, has been exploring the compositions of Duke Ellington. With original arrangements and ample room for improvisation, the group keeps asking itself the same question: what more can we do with this music? They find their answer in the extensive and still striking body of work Ellington left behind.

Ellington and his longtime writing partner Billy Strayhorn were masters of the medley: the seamless blending of different compositions, a technique also heard in cinematic overtures. Over the years, All Ellington has found its own, distinctly Amsterdam approach to this: like their great example, the setlist offers plenty of variety and a suite-like structure.

The line-up brings together young musicians and seasoned veterans who excel both as an ensemble and individually. Approaching the sonority of the original Ellington orchestra remains the goal, with enough space for every soloist to find their own way.

“The music of my race is something more than the American idiom.” (Duke Ellington)